Home Buyer Down Payment Grants for Single Mothers in South Dakota

Last updated: September 2025

Single moms in South Dakota can piece together real, specific help to get the keys. This guide focuses on down payment and closing cost help, but it also shows backup routes when a grant is waitlisted or empty. Use it to move fast, avoid traps, and line up the right program mix with a lender who knows these rules.

In every paragraph, you’ll find multiple direct links to official programs and agencies. All links are italicized and embedded right in the text to keep you moving.

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If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Call a participating lender who works with state down payment help and ask for “SDHDA Fixed Rate Plus” pre-approval today, then request same-day rate and closing-cost scenarios, and a list of acceptable DPA layers from underwriting. Use the lender search from South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA), pull free homebuyer classes via HERO Homebuyer Education, and confirm income and purchase price limits on SDHDA’s program pages. (info.sdhda.org)
• If you’re Native and working with a tribal or Native CDFI, ask your coach to request the statewide “up to $10,000” forgivable Down Payment Assistance now and get a written letter of commitment at least 14 days before closing. Start with the South Dakota Native Homeownership Coalition DPA, connect to a local CDFI through Lakota Funds, and review HERO partners serving reservations on SDHDA’s HERO info. (sdnativehomeownershipcoalition.org)
• If you’re rural or on a tight budget, call USDA Rural Development’s South Dakota office and ask about Section 502 Direct (no down payment) and whether funds are currently available in your county. Reach the SD office at 1-605-352-1100 via USDA Rural Development — South Dakota, read the program details and current rate on USDA 502 Direct, and, if needed, ask a packager like GROW South Dakota to help assemble your file. (rd.usda.gov)

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Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

• SDHDA Homebuyer help: 1-605-773-3181, check program limits and DPA info on SDHDA Fixed Rate Plus, find lenders on SDHDA “How to Apply”, and pick classes via HERO partners. (info.sdhda.org)
• USDA Rural Development SD office: 1-605-352-1100 for 502 Direct/Guaranteed help using USDA South Dakota Contacts, confirm rates and timelines at USDA 502 Direct, and check eligibility with a packager like GROW SD. (rd.usda.gov)
• Native and tribal buyers: Ask your counselor about the statewide DPA via SD Native Homeownership Coalition, find credit-building support with Lakota Funds, and check VA’s Native American Direct Loan (NADL) info if you’re a Veteran. (sdnativehomeownershipcoalition.org)
• Western SD (Black Hills) local help: Start with NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources for counseling/DPA access, scan details through 211 Helpline Center listing, and add HUD-approved counseling via CCCS of the Black Hills. (helplinecenter.org)
• Statewide navigation: Dial 211 or 1-605-339-4357 to reach Helpline Center 211, report lender problems to CFPB, and file scams with the South Dakota Attorney General Consumer Protection. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)

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Who This Guide Helps and How to Use It

This guide speaks to single mothers who need down payment help fast, with real numbers and direct contacts. Start with SDHDA’s 3% “gift” option, then layer any local, nonprofit, or tribal funds you’re eligible for, and add a federal loan that lowers or removes the down payment. Use SDHDA Fixed Rate Plus for immediate relief, scan GROW SD for packaging and counseling, and ask your lender about USDA 502 Direct or VA Home Loans if you qualify. (info.sdhda.org)

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Programs at a Glance — Down Payment Help You Can Use

Use this side-by-side to identify your first call and your backup. Always confirm funds are still open before you write offers.

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SDHDA Fixed Rate Plus — The “3% Gift” Most Single Moms Use First

Start here because it’s fast, pairs with many loans, and doesn’t need to be repaid. Ask a participating lender to price your loan with and without the 3% gift, so you can see the monthly difference and decide if the trade-off is worth it.

• What it is: SDHDA’s Fixed Rate Plus allows your lender to add up to 3% of the loan amount at closing to cover your down payment and/or closing costs, structured as a gift tied to a slightly higher first-mortgage rate. See program basics under “Downpayment Assistance” at SDHDA, learn why the rate trade-off exists here in SDHDA’s lending terms explainer, and line up education via HERO. (info.sdhda.org)
• Typical eligibility: Minimum 620 credit score, income and purchase price caps that SDHDA updates, and use with a participating lender. Check the current caps and repeat buyer rules in SDHDA’s “How to Apply”, confirm the 620-score and repeat buyer thresholds highlighted on SDHDA’s overview, and call SDHDA at 1-605-773-3181 to verify today’s figures. (info.sdhda.org)
• How to apply: Pick a lender from SDHDA’s list, complete a free homebuyer class with a HERO partner, and ask the lender to lock the rate and reserve funds to match your closing date. If you want extra tax savings, ask if the Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) can be added to your loan for ongoing federal tax credits. (info.sdhda.org)
• Timeline: If your file is clean and the home appraises on time, many lenders can close in 30–45 days; SDHDA’s assistance is delivered at closing through your lender. Always ask your loan officer for a dated, written timeline and lock expiration. Review SDHDA’s process on How to Apply, keep your calendar clear to complete the HERO class, and call SDHDA at 1-605-773-3181 if your closing date moves. (info.sdhda.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your debt-to-income or credit blocks you, schedule free housing counseling with LSS Center for Financial Resources, explore USDA’s zero‑down options via USDA 502 Direct, and ask a Native CDFI about the Coalition’s $10,000 DPA if you qualify. (lsssd.org)

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Local Nonprofit and City Programs — Fill the Gap or Stack with SDHDA

South Dakota’s nonprofits and cities add help that can close the last-mile gap. Some funds open and close during the year, so call to check status before paying for an inspection or appraisal.

HAPI — Homes Are Possible, Inc. (Brown County and nearby Northeast SD)

If you’re in or near Aberdeen, HAPI is often the most practical second layer.

• What it offers: A $5,000 down payment/closing cost, 0% loan due at sale, cash‑out refinance, or title transfer; HAPI’s homebuyer education is required. Read details on HAPI Closing Cost Assistance, contact HAPI at 1-605-225-4274 via HAPI contact, and add a state class through HERO. (homesarepossible.org)
• Who qualifies: HAPI uses HUD 80% AMI limits by household and county, and serves northeast and north‑central counties. Start with HAPI’s homepage, use a lender who knows SDHDA from How to Apply, and call 1-605-225-4274 for current coverage. (homesarepossible.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask if you can pair SDHDA’s 3% gift from SDHDA with a smaller seller credit, look at USDA zero‑down via USDA 502 Direct, and check if GROW South Dakota or NeighborWorks DHR has reopened DPA. (info.sdhda.org)

GROW South Dakota — Statewide Counseling, Packaging, and DPA (when available)

GROW SD is a HUD‑approved counseling agency and a USDA 502 Direct packager; its own DPA funds often run out, so call first.

• Status and amounts: GROW SD notes DPA funds are frequently fully committed, but past rounds ranged roughly $5,000–$7,500, 0% deferred, due at sale/refi. Check current status on GROW SD DPA page, view its homeownership programs and USDA packaging on GROW SD homeownership, and call 1-605-698-7654 for openings. (growsd.org)
• Why it matters: Even when DPA is out, GROW SD can package your USDA 502 Direct loan to speed review, and provide HUD‑approved counseling to get your credit and budget ready. Use the application portal on GROW SD and pick a class through HERO. (rd.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Switch to SDHDA’s 3% gift via SDHDA, see if HAPI’s $5,000fitsyourcountyvia[\ast HAPI\ast ](https://www.homesarepossible.org/closingcostassistance),and,ifyou’reNative,askabouttheCoalition’s[\ast upto$10,000 DPA*](https://www.sdnativehomeownershipcoalition.org/dpa/). (info.sdhda.org)

NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources — Western SD (Black Hills)

NeighborWorks DHR serves the Black Hills and western counties with coaching, rehab, and access to DPA options.

• What to expect: DPA availability and terms vary by funder; counseling and education are steady. Start at NeighborWorks DHR, confirm service area through the Helpline 211 listing, and add HUD counseling via CCCS Black Hills. (helplinecenter.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Layer SDHDA’s 3% gift through SDHDA, check tribal DPA via the Coalition, and ask the Rapid City USDA office listed on USDA SD Contacts about 502 Direct timelines. (info.sdhda.org)

Sioux Empire Housing Partnership — Education and Local Guidance

Get free homebuyer education and a local guide to Sioux Falls–area programs.

• How to use it: Register for classes at Sioux Empire Housing Partnership, get counseling through LSS Center for Financial Resources, and confirm city rehab/mobile home help via Sioux Falls Housing programs. (sdhousing.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Pair SDHDA’s 3% gift from SDHDA with lender‑paid credits, check USDA zero‑down via USDA 502 Direct, and call 211 Helpline to scan church/local funds. (info.sdhda.org)

City of Sioux Falls — Public Safety DPA (Specialized)

If you’re a full‑time, certified public safety worker, this is a significant forgivable option.

• Key points: Up to $20,000or20$385,000, designated neighborhoods only. See full rules at City of Sioux Falls Public Safety DPA, add city rehab programs via Sioux Falls Housing Division, and combine with SDHDA if allowed. (siouxfalls.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re not eligible, pivot to SDHDA’s 3% via SDHDA, and ask your lender about stacking with HAPI or GROW SD when open. (info.sdhda.org)

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Federal Loans That Lower or Remove Down Payments

These loans are not “grants,” but pairing them with local DPA reduces the cash you bring to closing.

• USDA Section 502 Direct (rural, very low to low income): No down payment; as of September 1, 2025, posted interest is 5.125% before any payment assistance adjustment, with payment assistance possibly reducing the effective rate to as low as 1%. Start with USDA 502 Direct, call the SD office at 1-605-352-1100 using USDA SD, and ask GROW SD about packaging at GROW SD. (rd.usda.gov)
• USDA 502 Guaranteed (rural, moderate income): Zero down if you qualify with a participating lender. Ask your lender to compare USDA Guaranteed plus SDHDA’s 3% gift via SDHDA, request the USDA contact on USDA SD Contacts, and verify eligible maps with your lender’s USDA portal. (info.sdhda.org)
• VA Home Loan (Veterans, active‑duty, some surviving spouses): Often zero down, no monthly mortgage insurance. Confirm eligibility via VA Home Loan eligibility, call VA Home Loans at 1-877-827-3702 from VA LGY contact, and if you’re Native, ask about VA’s NADL on VA Housing Assistance. (va.gov)
• FHA/Conventional with SDHDA: Pairing a low‑down loan with the SDHDA 3% gift can drop your cash due. Compare options with a lender from SDHDA’s “How to Apply”, complete free HERO education via HERO, and ask about SDHDA’s MCC tax credit to cut annual tax bills. (info.sdhda.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your file is thin, take a month to improve scores with HUD‑approved counseling through CFPB’s lookup, audit your budget in CreditSmart Homebuyer U, and revisit SDHDA’s 3% gift on SDHDA. (consumerfinance.gov)

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Eligibility and Rules in Plain English

• Income and purchase price limits: SDHDA updates these yearly; recent examples include purchase price caps shown as $275,000forfirst‑timeand$336,000 for repeat buyers in SDHDA posts, but you must verify current numbers with your lender. Review recent thresholds on SDHDA “How to Apply”, scan highlights on Affording a Home, and call SDHDA at 1-605-773-3181 for today’s caps. Amounts can change mid‑year. (info.sdhda.org)
• Education certificates: Most DPA requires a completion certificate. Choose a local class through HERO (SDHDA), use LSS CFR for Sioux Falls, and add CCCS Black Hills if you’re in Rapid City. (sdhousing.org)
• Property type and location: Some programs restrict where and what you can buy. Check USDA rural maps via your lender alongside USDA 502 Direct, confirm city limits for Sioux Falls programs at Sioux Falls Housing Programs, and verify tribal land rules with your Native CDFI via Lakota Funds. (rd.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you exceed limits, check if you’re eligible for the SDHDA Governor’s House Program, ask about moving just outside city lines to meet USDA rural maps, and weigh FHA/Conventional with the SDHDA 3% gift. (info.sdhda.org)

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Step‑by‑Step: How to Apply and Close Without Delays

• Step 1 — Get pre‑approved with a participating lender and ask them to price your loan with SDHDA 3% gift and without it, so you see the real monthly impact. Use SDHDA’s lender guide, book a free class via HERO, and start counseling if needed through CFPB’s counselor finder. (info.sdhda.org)
• Step 2 — Reserve DPA funds and get letters. If you qualify, ask your Native CDFI to request the [*Coalition’s $10,000DPA\ast ](https://www.sdnativehomeownershipcoalition.org/dpa/)atleast14dayspre‑close,call[\ast HAPI\ast ](https://www.homesarepossible.org/closingcostassistance)forthe$5,000 assistance, and check GROW SD DPA status. (sdnativehomeownershipcoalition.org)
• Step 3 — Match the loan to the program. If rural and eligible, compare USDA 502 Direct to FHA/Conventional with SDHDA 3% gift, and add an MCC if your lender offers it. (rd.usda.gov)
• Step 4 — Keep the file clean. Upload docs within 24 hours, avoid new credit, and confirm your class certificate is in the lender’s file. If something stalls, call SDHDA at 1-605-773-3181 via SDHDA contact, loop in your counselor from LSS CFR, and escalate with a housing counselor list from CFPB’s tool. (info.sdhda.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If underwriting denies the DPA layer, close with SDHDA’s 3% gift alone from SDHDA, ask for seller credit capped by loan rules that your lender explains, and re‑apply to DPA later to reimburse reserves. If a lender issue arises, file a complaint through CFPB and call the SD Division of Banking complaint portal. (consumerfinance.gov)

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Required Documents — Screenshot‑Friendly Checklist

Use this as you gather files for your lender and any DPA.

• Last 30 days of pay stubs, plus year‑to‑date totals — upload to your lender from SDHDA’s “How to Apply”, share with HAPI or GROW SD if requested. (info.sdhda.org)
• Two most recent federal tax returns and W‑2s — consistent across USDA 502 Direct, SDHDA, and Coalition DPA. (rd.usda.gov)
• Two months of bank statements — required by your lender and most DPAs such as HAPI, GROW SD, and NeighborWorks DHR. (homesarepossible.org)
• Government ID and Social Security card — matches your loan file; confirm identity requirements through SDHDA lenders, or counseling via HERO, and CFPB counselor tool. (info.sdhda.org)
• Homebuyer education certificate — accepted from HERO partners, LSS CFR, or CCCS Black Hills. (sdhousing.org)

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Timelines: What to Expect and When to Push

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County‑Specific Variations You Should Know

• Brown County (Aberdeen): HAPI currently lists a $5,000 closing cost/down payment loan, 0% interest; repay at sale/refi/title transfer, with class required via HAPI, add SDHDA via SDHDA, and counseling at HERO. (homesarepossible.org)
• Minnehaha/Lincoln (Sioux Falls metro): City runs rehab/mobile home programs and a targeted Public Safety DPA, while vouchers are handled by Sioux Falls Housing. See programs via Sioux Falls Housing Division, apply for metro counseling at LSS CFR, and check SFHRC updates on Sioux Falls Housing. (siouxfalls.gov)
• Pennington/Meade/Lawrence/Butte/Custer (Black Hills): Use NeighborWorks DHR for education/DPA access, confirm service area in the 211 listing, and explore USDA via USDA SD Contacts. (helplinecenter.org)
• Roberts/Codington/Grant/Hamlin (Northeast): Pair GROW SD counseling with SDHDA DPA; confirm DPA status at GROW SD DPA, package USDA through GROW SD homeownership, and use USDA SD office for contacts. (growsd.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your county’s DPA is empty, switch tactics to SDHDA’s 3% gift at SDHDA, ask your lender about a modest seller credit within program rules, and look at USDA zero‑down via USDA 502 Direct. (info.sdhda.org)

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Resources by Region — One‑Look Directory

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Diverse Communities — Targeted Tips and Contacts

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Fair housing law covers sex, including sexual orientation and gender identity; if you hit bias, file with HUD Fair Housing, call the Sioux Falls HUD office at 1-605-330-4223 from HUD SD, and get a local advocate through CFPB’s HUD‑approved counselor finder. TTY users can dial 711 for relay. (hud.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask for large‑print class materials from HERO partners, request reasonable accommodations in programs via HUD Fair Housing, and call 211 at Helpline Center for local disability resources and application help. (sdhousing.org)
• Veteran single mothers: Compare zero‑down VA loans through VA Home Loans eligibility, call 1-877-827-3702 using VA LGY contact, and see if NADL fits trust land via VA Housing Assistance. Pair that with SDHDA 3% gift if needed. (va.gov)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: Bring permanent resident or eligible status documents to class with HERO partners, verify loan eligibility with a lender from SDHDA “How to Apply”, and ask a counselor found via CFPB’s tool for language help. (sdhousing.org)
• Tribal‑specific resources: Work with the Coalition’s $10,000 forgivable DPA, ask Lakota Funds for credit coaching and mortgage readiness, and consider USDA 502 Direct for homes off‑reservation if inventory is tight. (sdnativehomeownershipcoalition.org)
• Rural single moms with limited access: Use USDA’s toll line in USDA SD to locate your area office, take online CreditSmart Homebuyer U for prep, and ask GROW SD about phone‑based counseling. (rd.usda.gov)
• Single fathers: These programs are gender‑neutral. Use SDHDA, add HERO education, and connect with CFPB counseling locator for neutral help. (info.sdhda.org)
• Language access: Ask for interpreters through CFPB which supports 180+ languages by phone, request translated materials when available from HUD SD, and confirm TTY/relay (711) is accepted at HUD SD office. (consumerfinance.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you face discrimination, file with HUD Fair Housing, reach the SD Division of Human Rights at 1-605-773-3681, and ask a counselor via CFPB’s tool to help document and escalate. (hud.gov)

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How to Stop Utility Shutoff in South Dakota Today

If you’re mid‑purchase and fear a water or power shutoff, act the same day to protect your kids and your closing.

• Sioux Falls Water Bill Help: Call Utility Billing at 1-605-367-8131 to arrange a payment plan and avoid shutoff windows, then pay online if needed. Use Pay a Utility Bill, review disconnect rules at Utility Billing FAQ, and ask 211 for emergency help at Helpline Center 211. (siouxfalls.gov)
• Rapid City Utility Assist: Ask about the City’s donation‑backed Utility Assist program and how to get referred; contact Public Works at 1-605-394-4135. Read the city release at Rapid City Utility Assist, confirm details with Rapid City news page, and use 211 at Helpline Center. (rcgov.org)
• Statewide energy help: Apply for LIHEAP immediately (heating help) and ask for crisis processing if shutoff is pending. Use SD DSS Energy Assistance contacts by office, confirm state profile at LIHEAP Clearinghouse, and if you’re on tribal lands, ask your tribal office for LIHEAP paths through HUD SD. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your lender whether a utility balance can be paid at closing, check church funds through Helpline Center 211, and keep documentation for your underwriter from Sioux Falls utilities or Rapid City. (siouxfalls.gov)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Paying for inspection and appraisal before you confirm DPA funds are still open in writing with HAPI or GROW SD, and lock your SDHDA 3%. (homesarepossible.org)
• Ignoring MCC tax savings; ask up front about SDHDA’s MCC, and what years you can claim. Pair with HERO classes to avoid last‑minute certificate scrambles. (info.sdhda.org)
• Assuming USDA is “fast” every month; the state office notes timelines vary with funding and demand, so plan for extra time on USDA 502 Direct, and use a packager like GROW SD. (rd.usda.gov)
• Mixing ineligible property types; confirm city limits, rural status, and tribal land path early with Sioux Falls Housing Programs, USDA SD contacts, and a Native CDFI via Lakota Funds. (siouxfalls.gov)

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Reality Check: Funding ebbs and flows

DPA pools at nonprofits can run dry mid‑year, and USDA 502 Direct can slow or pause depending on funding. Always get a dated letter of commitment, and have a plan to close with SDHDA’s 3% gift alone if a secondary source falls through. Confirm status at GROW SD, check USDA SD office, and price the fallback with SDHDA. (growsd.org)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Real‑World Examples You Can Model

• Rapid City CNA with two kids: She pairs SDHDA’s 3% gift from SDHDA with a USDA 502 Direct pre‑approval from USDA SD, but due to timing, closes FHA with SDHDA DPA now and keeps USDA as a backup. She gets counseling from CCCS Black Hills to build reserves for repairs. (info.sdhda.org)
• Aberdeen retail manager: She uses HAPI’s $5,000 assistance at HAPI, finishes a Saturday HERO class, and stacks SDHDA’s 3% gift via SDHDA. Her lender shows both “with gift” and “without gift” monthly payments so she can choose. (homesarepossible.org)
• Tribal member teacher near Mission: She works with a Native CDFI to request Coalition DPA up to $10,000, gets an MCC quote from SDHDA, and explores USDA 502 Direct for a home just outside town. (sdnativehomeownershipcoalition.org)

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Tables You Can Save

Program Mix — Quick Strategy Guide

Contact Fast Sheet

Utility Crisis — Two‑City Snapshot

Education — Where to Get Your Certificate

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Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied

• Ask for a written reason: Request the adverse action letter from your lender and a bullet list of exact conditions that would reverse it. Keep SDHDA in the loop via SDHDA contact, bring the letter to a housing counselor found via CFPB’s tool, and get a second opinion from another SDHDA lender. (info.sdhda.org)
• Escalate complaints: If a lender misapplied program rules, file with CFPB, notify the SD Division of Banking, and keep a log of dates and names. If you suspect discrimination, file with HUD Fair Housing. (consumerfinance.gov)
• Re‑route the file: If income is too low for FHA, consider USDA 502 Direct; if reserve funds are the issue, increase DPA stacking with SDHDA 3% gift and a smaller seller credit per loan cap. For Native buyers, ask your CDFI about Coalition DPA. (rd.usda.gov)

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FAQs — South Dakota‑Specific Answers

• Do I have to repay SDHDA’s 3% help?
  No. The 3% is a gift tied to a slightly higher first‑mortgage rate, delivered at closing. Confirm the rate trade‑off and current limits on SDHDA’s assistance page, ask your lender on How to Apply, and complete HERO education. (info.sdhda.org)
• Is the Native DPA really forgivable?
  Yes. The Coalition’s DPA is 0% and 100% forgivable after five years in the home, with an approval required at least 14 days before closing. See terms at Coalition DPA, and coordinate with your Native CDFI such as Lakota Funds. (sdnativehomeownershipcoalition.org)
• What’s the USDA 502 Direct rate now?
  USDA posts the current Direct rate (5.125% as of September 1, 2025, before payment assistance). Check the latest at USDA 502 Direct, and call the SD office at 1-605-352-1100 via USDA SD. (rd.usda.gov)
• Does HAPI still offer assistance in Brown County?
  HAPI lists a $5,000 0% loan for down payment/closing costs with repayment at sale/refi/title transfer and required class. Confirm details on HAPI, then add SDHDA 3% via SDHDA. (homesarepossible.org)
• Is GROW SD DPA open?
  Funds are often fully committed; check status before you make offers. See the status note on GROW SD DPA, and ask about USDA packaging through GROW SD homeownership. (growsd.org)
• Can I stack city help with SDHDA?
  Often yes, if program rules allow. For Sioux Falls Public Safety DPA, read rules at Sioux Falls DPA, and ask your lender to confirm compatibility with SDHDA. (siouxfalls.gov)
• Where do I get unbiased advice fast?
  Find a HUD‑approved counselor using CFPB’s locator, pick state classes through HERO, and call 211 via Helpline Center for local referrals. (consumerfinance.gov)
• What if a lender treats me unfairly?
  Document everything and file with CFPB, report to the SD Division of Banking, and, for discrimination, file with HUD Fair Housing. (consumerfinance.gov)
• Can I get help if I’m already a homeowner?
  For repairs and safety items, Sioux Falls offers rehab programs at Sioux Falls Housing, NeighborWorks DHR helps in the Black Hills via NeighborWorks DHR, and HAPI offers repair grants when available at HAPI. (siouxfalls.gov)
• Who do I call for a quick list of everything near me?
  Dial 211 for the Helpline Center, get SDHDA’s main line at 1-605-773-3181 from SDHDA, and use the CFPB counselor tool to find HUD‑approved help. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
• Who is the local HUD office if I need federal help?
  Sioux Falls HUD Field Office is the in‑state contact; call 1-605-330-4223 using the info at HUD SD Offices, and browse state resources at HUD South Dakota. (hud.gov)

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Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

• Use the statewide directory at Helpline Center 211 to find church grants and emergency aid, confirm city programs at Sioux Falls Housing Programs, and check tribal support through the Native Homeownership Coalition. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
• For longer‑term affordability, look at Habitat paths with Habitat Sioux Falls, get rehab support via NeighborWorks DHR, and explore affordable rentals through SDHDA’s search tools at SDHDA “Find Your Space”. (siouxfallshabitat.org)
• For legal questions about fair housing, call HUD Fair Housing, report scams to the SD Attorney General Consumer Protection, and ask the SD Division of Human Rights about state complaint options. (hud.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Add a second call to USDA SD for rural options, ask LSS CFR for a budget review, and revisit SDHDA for the 3% gift. (rd.usda.gov)

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Reality Check — Delays, Denials, and Shortages

• DPA runs out: Nonprofit funds like GROW SD DPA can be fully committed; secure SDHDA’s 3% at SDHDA as a fallback, and re‑apply when new rounds open. Use HERO classes while you wait. (growsd.org)
• USDA timing: 502 Direct timelines vary with funding and demand; build extra time into your offer. Confirm expectations at USDA 502 Direct, coordinate with USDA SD, and keep your file complete. (rd.usda.gov)
• Underwriting rules: Stacking help must match loan rules. Ask your lender to email a matrix showing which DPAs can pair with which loans, and verify with SDHDA and Coalition DPA. (info.sdhda.org)

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Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot

• Select a participating lender from SDHDA How to Apply, request a same‑day call to discuss SDHDA 3% gift pros/cons, and confirm MCC availability on SDHDA MCC. (info.sdhda.org)
• Book a free homebuyer class at HERO, with local options through LSS CFR or CCCS BH. (sdhousing.org)
• Apply for secondary DPA: HAPI $5k, GROW SD, or Coalition DPA (14+ days pre‑close). (homesarepossible.org)
• If rural, start USDA 502 Direct, and contact the SD office on USDA SD for a file review. (rd.usda.gov)
• Save emergency contacts: Helpline Center 211, CFPB complaint, and SD Division of Banking complaints. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)

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Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español

Esta sección fue traducida con herramientas de IA para ofrecer una guía rápida; verifique todos los detalles con las agencias oficiales enlazadas.

• Ayuda inicial: Pida una precalificación con un prestamista que use el 3% de regalo de SDHDA, tome clases gratis en HERO, y confirme límites de ingreso y precio en SDHDA “Cómo aplicar”. (info.sdhda.org)
• Ayuda tribal: Si es miembro de una tribu, pida hasta $10,000 (perdonables a 5 años) por medio de SD Native Homeownership Coalition, y busque capacitación financiera con Lakota Funds. (sdnativehomeownershipcoalition.org)
• Compra rural: Llame a USDA SD al 1-605-352-1100 para préstamo 502 Direct sin enganche en USDA 502 Direct, y pida ayuda de empaque a GROW SD. (rd.usda.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA)
• USDA Rural Development — South Dakota
• South Dakota Native Homeownership Coalition
• Homes Are Possible, Inc. (HAPI)
• GROW South Dakota
• NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources
• HUD South Dakota Field Office
• LSS Center for Financial Resources
• CCCS of the Black Hills
• City of Sioux Falls — Housing Programs

Last verified September 2025, next review January 2026.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

This information is for general guidance. Programs change without notice, amounts vary by fund availability, and lenders apply their own underwriting rules. Always confirm current availability and requirements with the official program administrator and your lender before you spend money on inspections or appraisals. For legal or discrimination issues, file with HUD Fair Housing, contact the South Dakota Division of Human Rights, and get free counseling via CFPB’s housing counselor finder. (hud.gov)

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What to do next: Pick your lender, reserve the SDHDA 3% gift, and submit at least one local DPA application this week. Then get your education certificate done. You’ll be ready to write a strong offer that can survive common funding hiccups.

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🏛️More South Dakota Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in South Dakota

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery